The Idea Fountain: Life Changing Conversations: Recent Episodes
Julie Pilat
Julie Pilat hosts a series of conversations with inspiring, understated, change makers of the world who have influenced, inspired, or changed a life.
Cassie Petrey has been a trusted source when it comes to social media. Whether it's business or personal social is a topic that influences so much of what we do.... and we probably don't talk about it enough. In this episode we discuss the value of social with business, creators, and best practices for mental health when it comes to social for you and your talent.
Idea Fountain Mini Episode with Jasmine of Sonocine for Breast Cancer Awareness month. After I turned 35 and was set to get my first mammogram one of my trusted health advisors suggested I check out this alternative. Jasmine has Sonocine, a zero radiation, automated breast ultrasound. This is not medical advice or an advertisement - it's just a tool and resource for more support. Here's to all of our self care and health!
Lucky Salway supports his culture and Pine Ridge Indian reservation with an incredible mural, printing press, and documentary project.
2X Grammy Nom Producer / DJ Morgan Page has created Quick Tips - It's a beautifully designed card deck with bite-sized techniques to unlock your creative potential.
S6 Ep9 Songwriting: Autumn Rowe and Happiness
The Entertainment industry can be both a magical and tricky place. A rollercoaster might be an understatement. Rules of engagement don’t really exist in music and even if they did… the business feels like it’s changing more every six months than it use to in five years. I’m always in awe of people who have patience. Songwriters go to work every day not knowing if their music will be recorded, or by who, when it will come out, or if they get paid. I can’t imagine having a “job” like that. Today we talk to Autumn Rowe about her journey as a songwriter, work with SONA, and the journey of “Happiness”.
Don’t Freak Out!!! It’s Mercury in Retrograde.
Here’s an Idea Fountain short with one of my favorite astrological “go-tos” Mary Jo who will tell you not only how to survive the next few weeks… but THRIVE.
In Pt 1 I had the opportunity to interview Former Google Engineer Blake Lemoine who claimed that their AI, LaMDA, had become sentient. He was placed on administrative leave then let go.
When we did the interview we had the WORST Zoom connection and only were able to chat for about 15 minutes before aborting mission. I still had so many questions I emailed him… and he answered them all.
In this episode I gathered together some of my most interesting and curious friends for a little AI Theater. To start they’re going to read the transcripts from the email answers that Blake Lemoine sent on AI & Consciousness.
Then we’ll wrap with a fireside chat discussing what it all means for the future!!
The future is being created every second and it's up to us to decide if we're going to be a part of the conversation or just trust big tech with it all. In Part 1 former Google Engineer Blake Lemoine lays the foundation for a conversation about AI and Consciousness.
Nabil Ayers is President of the Beggars Music Group, played in many successful Seattle area bands, and owned my favorite local record store Sonic Boom. Recently he released his Memoir "My Life in the Sunshine: Searching for My Father and Discovering My Family". His Father, Roy Ayers, is a jazz legend but this book gives you a chance to get to know one of my favorite people from growing up in the Seattle, Nabil.
There’s more pressure than ever for photos, reels, and content! Johanna Brinckman is a German photographer, working in LA, who specializes in the most beautiful portraits.
Whether you want to up your game as a professional photographer or strategize the best way to take and maximize a photo shoot.
"Jon Shearer has left the building" - that note was posted recently on the KGRG Alumni page signaling that the unofficial Godfather of the station had unexpectedly passed away. KGRG is Green River Community College's station about 20 miles outside Seattle and has been the start of more bands than I can remember and home to many music biz veterans. Today alumni gather to deep dive on the history, memories, and what we got from that magical broadcast trailer.
Fame Hackers has support for creators to build community and monetize their content. Izzy Bedoya recently released a "Recession Proof" course and discusses strategy in this episode.
Mostly known for music Poe is a digital pioneer and new friend to the Idea Fountain. In this episode we discuss her career journey and connection to tech and Web 3.
JammCard is a community of the world’s leading music professionals. Need Post Malone’s drummer? Taylor Swift’s keyboard player? A violinist to record strings on a single - you can do it now with the highest level of musicians in the game on the JammCard App. They ALSO are now facilitating mentoring. Elmo Lovano shares an inspiring journey from worldwide tours to being a tech founder.
Amy B of Fruition gives a challenge to inventory and test your 6P’s. It’s a really good exercise for anyone especially creators and artists. The 6P’s are a mini life survival checklist and a lot of the time when we’re navigating a world… or an industry operating by doing things that have never been done before…. It’s easy to lose sight of what’s most important.
When the pandemic hit and tours stopped most creators scrambled to find revenue and direction. Georgia Maq went to work as a Covid nurse in Melbourne. More than ever - that is how she found her VOICE… on this new album, producing in the studio…. And saving lives.
Camp Cope's latest record Running with the Hurricane drops March 25th. Georgia Maq checks in with details and an incredibly inspiring story.
Growing up in the suburbs between Seattle and Olympia the music scene & DIY attitude became deeply ingrained in who I am. From putting on our own shows, to making zines, and connecting community was a way of life. In this episode we talk to a musician, music biz boss, and Riot Grrrl founder - Molly Neuman about how it all came together and how we can keep the DIY spirit alive to make a difference today.
"YING is an exciting way for our community members to share their skills with one another. Whether between friends, colleagues, or neighbors; YING helps communities by connecting them to one another". In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's birthday we embrace community capital and a return to connection while talking to CEO & Founder of YING - Karla Ballard
New Year, New Goals, New Vision - I love mapping out my year, and setting the tone, by making a vision board. Pre-pandemic Lisa from Ilaments held a vision board workshop at my house with about 20 of my favorite people.... her expertise brought magic and inspiration. It's a simple idea but packs a big punch. What do you want to create? Start here!
2022 the year of the NFT? Every creator I know is either over the moon about future possibilities with blockchain and NFTs or just trying to figure it out. Joel Day of Aijia and RockGod talks us through NFT 101.
Caroline D'Amore is a world famous DJ, musician, model, Mom and now the creator and boss behind Pizza Girl pasta sauce!! Listen to the story about how her life did a 180.... or a remix to create one of the fastest growing consumer brands to hit the sauce world.
A spontaneous play date in the park led me to one of the most unique creators I've met. Brandon Server is a Guiness Book World Record Holding acro dunker. You know... the guys who run from half court, jump on a trampoline, do 3 flips, put the ball under their leg, then dunk?! From the Harlem Globetrotters to the NBA Brandon talks about how he turned his dreams into a business and created a record setting career.
2021 has been the YEAR of the CREATOR - Mickey Shiloh has created a subscription record label called HRDRV. She’s giving access to distribution, marketing, mixes, and more for independent artists. Her platform is a game changer and I love her personal evolution of an artist, to an entrepreneur to the most empowered version of an artist she’s ever been.
Creators often write books, make songs, or cook up amazing dishes. Today is about creating something that has never been done before out of THIN AIR. Victoria Buda invented a challenge... or some call it a game.... but it's more like an inspiration game called 31 Crush. Until today it's been a private, invite only, occasion that happens twice a year. If you're searching for inspiration, new community, and clarity the crush might just be for you!
Creators aren't just musicians, writers, and artists - they're chefs too!! Be inspired by Lara from fleurs et sel - the new Cookie Queen of Los Angeles. After being laid off during the pandemic she leaned into what she loves and started making the best cookies in the world! The cookies are in high demand and everyone from Good Morning America to people backstage at the Foo Fighters are getting a taste. Her every day lessons learned while working at Nordstrom or starting this new cookie business will transcend all creative endeavors. She's magic and if you're in L.A. you HAVE to try fleurs et sel.
Bangladesh born Anik Khan's latest releases Denied & Approved follow his immigration journey. While he was in the thick of sorting his status he had global hits, requests to tour the world, a PBS documentary, Bernie Sanders and AOC knocking on his door, and opened a Chai restaurant in Manhattan. No matter how frustrating his situation felt it was his connection to community and culture that kept him going. He's now officially a citizen and the opportunities are infinite for this King of Queens.
The first independent artist I ever knew also happened to have the #1 song in the country, which ended up being one of the most licensed songs of all time and shifted culture to this day. Sir Mix-A-Lot is a Hip Hop pioneer and Seattle Family who I’ve always respected not only due to his talent, or his business acumen, but also forward thinking mentality and respect for community.
2022 will be the 30th Anniversary of Baby Got Back. Not just a song about buts…. It spoke truth, MANY say for the first time, about the representation of African American women in the media. If this song wasn’t created would the Kardashian’s look the way they do today? Would Brazilian Butt Lifts be one of the. Most popular and dangerous surgeries in the world? Would Beyonce ever talked about Jay Z cheating on her with BECKY with the good hair?
Hang out for a bit of history and a healthy dose of music biz mentoring from the one and only Sir Mix A Lot.
Cristina Dam is owner of Liberate Emporium and also my hypnotherapist. In life we all have so many tools to navigate - whether it’s meditation, exercise, rituals and whenever I’m going through a transition hypnotherapy hits the spot. In the last few months friends (from all over the globe) have come to me with a series of challenges and I’ve sent them to Cristina only to hear rave reviews. It was such a great reminder that I needed to go back for a tune up and I’m so glad I did! Find out how or why you may want to try hypnotherapy and also support this amazing local business in Los Feliz & now Sherman Oaks!
When I first started the Idea Fountain and vowed to interview someone who had changed my life every month…. I only planned on one season. I mean - how many people can change your life?! Now - 41 episodes in I can confidently say - A LOT!!
In this episode we talk to my Meditation Teacher and Author Light Watkins about his new book "Knowing Where to Look: 108 Daily Doses of Inspiration". It's often something someone says, seeing someone you consider a mentor, or being struck by inspiration while doing an every day chore but if you pay attention... that inspiration could change your life. It did mine! When I signed up for Light's TM Meditation Training 9 years ago and it's changed just about everything since.
Dress Code: Dress as you would like to be known. THAT was on the invitation to themes fun and magical dinner party I’ve ever attended.
Thrown by Jon Levy - creator of the influencer dinner series he set off a chain reaction of me trying something new, meeting new friends, and eventually getting even getting a secret santa - Chieh Huang the CEo of BOXED who was my LAST Idea Fountain guest.
Jon Levy is a behavioral scientist and he has a new book - You’re Invited the Art and Science of Cultivating Influence dropping May 11th. In this episode find out how your influence and connections could change EVERYTHING…. and create an especially more meaningful life.
The Idea Fountain S4 Ep 5: Corporate Social Responsibility with Chieh Huang of Boxed
Last December Chieh got matched to be my Secret Santa! He generously loaded us up with GIGANTIC delivery boxes of supplies and also, unexpectedly, a huge dose of inspiration.
There’s a lot of chatter about Corporate Social Responsibility. I believe Chieh is an absolute visionary for how he treats his employees and customers.
What if your job paid for your wedding? What if they offered to pay your kid’s college tuition? You may want to dust off your resume because I know a guy…. And you will too if you listen to this episode of the Idea Fountain: Life Changing Conversations!
There are 56,000 open Foster cases in Los Angeles. Last summer we signed up to Foster to Adopt a baby zero - two years old. Within 30 days we got a 11 month old baby and you'll never believe what happened next. Join me in discussing this deeply personal story. Kenneth from Child Help, a Foster Family Agency in LA, breaks down Fostering 101.
In an on going effort to do better, feel better, and heal the planet I'm always interested in how to best connect with nature. In this episode Julie Hovsepian of In A Golden State talks Herbal Medicine, changing career paths, and the abundance of medicine all around us.
It's Inauguration Day and Gahl Sasson joins the Idea Fountain to discuss his new book: The Astrology of 2021 Out of Darkness, Light. It feels like a new day, a new era, and a new opportunity for us to come together and make a difference. What a perfect time to check in with one of my favorite spiritual mentors to hear how he feels things are flowing.
“Why would you want a jukebox - you have 50 million songs on your watch?!” asks Don Muller of potential customers at Jukeboxes Unlimited.
My answer would be - because they are pure magic.
I got my “Unorthodox Jukebox” almost a decade ago and it is my prized possession. Picking a song, watching the needle hit the record, and the sound as it comes out of the speakers with no skips!! It’s music in it’s purest form.
Don Muller, owner of Jukeboxes Unlimited, has had his company since 1971. He’s put a jukebox in everyone’s house from Tom Petty to Pac. We discuss the origins of a juke, business in the 60s, 70s, and 80s, vinyl, and everything you need to know about buying a jukebox.
This month we caught up with superstar musician / actress / fashion designer Beth Ditto! Let me back up - saying Beth is an artist is an understatement. I believe she has the best female voice in rock! Many of her songs have stuck with me through decades. Earlier this year personally I hit a wall with an issue…. When I was at my lowest I tried to problem solve by thinking about people I could use as mentors. Beth immediately came to mind and as expected I got much healing from this heart to heart conversation.
In one of the most vulnerable episodes I’ve ever taped Beth and I talk about Covid and quarantine life, the state of the music biz, fertility, forgiveness, and being your authentic self. The world is upside down and more than ever we need to keep the people we love and respect close.
Every year Youth Mentoring takes 50 teenage girls up the mountain to Big Bear for the Girls Retreat! It’s a powerful journey of separation, challenges, and a sisterhood celebration. I’ve done about 8 retreats and am heartbroken that we’re missing out this year. As with so many things Covid-19 has put this year’s retreat on hold. Join us for a conversation with Juliana Wells, and some of our mentors and mentees, as we dig in on why and how the annual initiation creates magic and how you can help our girls this year with or with out the mountain.
David Kessler is the world’s foremost expert on grief and loss. Grief can come from losing a loved one, a job, a break up, or even the loss of connection during Covid-19. This episode was recorded in service to the music community while recognizing the grief and loss they have faced from the cancellation of touring, connection to fans and the loss of hope that things may be normal again soon.
These are the people in your neighborhood….. In this episode of the Idea Fountain we talk to Music Marketing Boss in the Game Kristen Fraser of PVTL who is also - my neighbor!! Neighborhoods and neighbors mean more than ever during quarantine. Join us for a deep dive on community, the power of local music marketing, and how to take advantage of resources like Time Banking, “Buy Nothing” groups or foraging fruit in L.A.!
Nature is a gift. This year I was able to witness one of the most beautiful things I've ever been able to experience - the chrysalis and evolution of a monarch butterfly. In 2018 "California had plunged to only 20,456 butterflies - a drop of 86% since last year" said National Geographic. It's time to reconnect with the planet and save the butterflies before it's too late. Songwriter, Artist, Record Producer, Humanitarian, and Butterfly Farmer Koool Kojak tells us how.
Service: 2020 has been a powerful time to think about making sacrifices and standing up for what you believe in. Whether you use your voice, protest, donate, or give back…. How are you in service. What if you had to risk your life for something you didn’t necessarily believe in?
In this episode we talk to my Dad about his experience getting drafted to Vietnam, how he has continued to serve, and also his thoughts on defunding the police. As always we filled the (Zoom) room up with people I love for a fireside chat and some unbelievable stories! Enjoy!
Everything has changed. In a blink we realize what we took for granted. I miss Dodgers games, yoga class, and Friday Morning Hike Club. In this episode of the Idea Fountain Kevin Carroll talks about the void left in our lives from the absence of sports and play during Covid-19. If quarantine has you in a rut - taking a few lessons from Kevin’s Rules of the Red Rubber Ball may be exactly what you need.
“There is something in this interview for everyone that lives in LA or even people who ever thought of visiting LA!! There needs to be a part 2!!” - Says Julian, my boyfriend, who was completely enamored with my guest Julio Shampoolio. There is also something in this interview for anyone with grey hair or anyone thinking about emotionally dying their hair a new color during quarantine. There is something in this interview for anyone feeling disconnected, questioning what is happening with the world, and trying to find their purpose or style in a really difficult time. Everyone knows hair stylists often double as therapists so it felt like the perfect time to interview mine. Julio Shampoolio is the owner of Melrose’s Shampoolio Salon and The Roaring 90s vintage. I have a daily calendar that serves up mantras and the other day it said “I share my knowledge and resources with all of Life.” That’s essentially what the Idea Fountain is - my knowledge and resources. Every month I interview someone who has changed my life. This month - it’s Shampoolio… enjoy!
International Women's History Month has been overshadowed by this pandemic and crisis moment. Still, I think it's more important than ever to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. In this episode I'm joined by Jennifer McGarigle from Floral Art, Patty Rodriguez of Lil Libros, and LaLa Romero of Bella Dona as well as a living room full of talented bosses in the game. I've always worked for a corporation and I'm in awe of these women for bringing their dreams to life. I learned a ton from our chat and left incredibly inspired and thankful for my tribe of strong women. March and International Women's History Month may have been overshadowed by Coronavirus but we will KEEP celebrating!
Break glass in case of emergency! Whether you have been in a crisis lately, have a friend in crisis, or feel like the world’s in crisis this episode about support is for you! 2019 at times felt like a heavy year. It made me realize that connection has meant more to me than ever lately. Liz Hernandez is the Creator and Host of Wordaful. Wordaful was inspired by the idea that words are powerful. Liz and I often get together for long talks about life. This time we did it, as a fireside chat, with a group of friends at the house. I’m excited to share it with you for the latest edition of The Idea Fountain!
It’s the biggest week for music - Grammy Week!!
It was important for me to do this episode to not only discuss how you can get involved and be a Grammy Member…. also I really wanted to focus on getting involved.
In an election year it’s more important than ever to have a voice.
A lot of people have strong opinions about politics and awards shows - but… if you’re not voting or getting involved nothing ever is going to change.
I am a Governor for the LA Chapter of the Recording Academy and think it’s a privilege to advocate on behalf of my favorite artists and creatives. The music industry is changing FAST - and if we’re not involved in the conversations about the future - who will be?!?!
If you want to get involved in the Recording Academy do it today. You need to apply by March 1st. More details in this episode or on the Idea Fountain page.
No matter what I hope this episode inspires you to get involved and use your voice this year. We need people who care, speaking up for what matters, and connecting more than ever.
Happy New Year!! If you know me you know.... a party trick of mine has always been the ability to do numerology. I recorded a special edition of The Idea Fountain with the woman who taught me everything I know - Karen Cornell!! We'll break down how you can figure out your personal year, what 2020 means for you, and practice by reading some celebrity birthdays and also Idea Fountain listeners. Enjoy!!
Here’s to unplugging over the holidays.
This month on The Idea Fountain Max Stossel, from the Center for Humane Technology, did a fireside chat about screen time which turned into a bit of a therapy sessions for all involved.
Max said “Social media didn’t create our problems but it poured gasoline on them.” Removing likes, 5G, internet trolls, parenting, emotional intelligence, AI, creativity - we covered it all in this episode.
I know it always feels good to tape an episode of the Idea Fountain live with a group of friends at my house. The personal connection is a highlight much more than just liking photos on my phone. Still, I love connecting and staying in touch with people on line. Less time on screens will be a 2020 New Years Resolution for me. Wishing you more of whatever you want in 2020!
Every year at Thanksgiving canned food drives are arranged. Many people like to serve meals at the Union Rescue Mission DTLA. There are an estimated 60,000 homeless people in the Los Angeles area year round. It’s a number so large it can be hard to wrap your mind around. Recently, I met one man named Wendell Blassingame. He’s the City Councilman for Skid Row. He was once homeless. Now every day, for the past 17 years, he’s set a table up at San Julian Park to help people. Talking with Wendell has changed my life. Normally I record each episode of The Idea Fountain in my house as a fireside chat. This month we took the conversation down to Skid Row with sirens, loud music, and commotion for one of the most priceless episodes to date. I hope you get half as much as I did from Wendell in our conversation about Humanizing Homelessness.
Learn about one of my favorite places in L.A. Wolf Connection! Just an hour North of L.A. it’s easy to feel like you’re on another planet. Being at Wolf Connection instills a nearly indescribable calm as you come face to face with long lost friends.
They say humans learned their social cues from wolves hundreds of thousands of years ago. Being connected to wolves resonates on a cellular level.
Wolf Connection’s® Wolf Therapy™ is an education and empowerment program with wolfdogs, Youth Ambassadors, as the centerpiece. With the help of these magnificent animals, men and women from all walks of life learn about nature and conservation, work through the challenges in their lives, learn to be of service by responsibly caring for another living being, and work towards becoming the kind of person they want to be.
The organization was created in 2009 with the purpose of using the presence and natural balance of these deeply intuitive animals to inspire and educate at-risk youth in Los Angeles County and its vicinity.
Teo Alfero has a unique journey to finding his purpose. Learn more about Wolf Connection, his new book, and how you can be involved on this month’s episode of The Idea Fountain!
“Gut feeling. Sixth sense. Hunch. No matter what it's called, intuition plays a part in the decisions we make every day. In seminars around the world, @LauraDayIntuit has taught business people, financial analysts, celebrities, homemakers, doctors, lawyers, and other professionals how to consciously tap this hidden ability.” - was the description of Laura Day’s book Practical Intuition.
After stumbling on her book about 20 years ago it changed the way I think about… just about everything! It’s guided me to shift what I’m putting my energy into and helped me accomplish major goals. Her book “The Circle” taught me that we’re not doing “life” alone. Laura Day even inspired conversations in every episode of this season of The Idea Fountain!
This year I had the privilege of attending one of Laura Day’s bootcamps in LA. After I got to interview her in NYC & deep dive on some of the intuition questions I had always wanted to ask…. Like what are the differences between instincts and intuition? If you’re having serendipities, or signs, in your life - what does it all mean? Is it just a coincidence or something I should focus on? Take this episode as your intuition starter kit and official welcoming to The Circle.
It’s an addiction. It’s something that not only has changed lives but saved lives. “The sweetest thing I’ve ever known. Just like a kiss on a collar bone” - Lauryn Hill. Music has been the biggest part of my heart, brain, and life for as long as I can remember. I started The Idea Fountain: Life Changing Conversations but to date we have never really talked about music. I think that’s because a lot of music interviews can be promotional. When it comes to artists who have changed my life… I mean artists not songs…. There’s 2Pac. He’s not available. Kathleen Hanna and the Riot Grrrl movement really shaped who I am today (still working on that). There IS one person that worked created SO much music, that somehow got woven into the identity, memories, and culture of who I am that my life is forever changed - it’s Salaam Remi. We’re talking Fugees, Nas, and Amy Winehouse just to name a few. In true “Sawubona” fashion he sees artists, who are artists, in every sense of the word. He grew up loving the radio. And he’s one of the best guys in music. We started talking music and the floodgates opened - this is the longest Idea Fountain episode to date but there are also so many gems. Enjoy!
From South Central to the WORLD - Krumping is a movement. Battle Zone is the venue. Tommy the Clown is a legend. He’s an entrepreneur. He has single handedly lowered gang violence in LA. He’s been a part of some my most important life moments from birthdays to changing jobs. Some say “you have to see it to believe it” and millions did when they watched Tommy the Clown in David LaChepelle’s iconic documentary RIZE. Hear Tommy’s story on this episode of The Idea Fountain. See him in action as Battle Zone returns July 27th at Southwest College at 6PM. I will also be a guest judge!
The Co-Founder and Chief Culture Officer of We Work discusses his DIY mentality in business and changing the world.
In-Q’s poems fill my heart with more wisdom and insight than any song ever has. The words are not lyrics but they flow like medicine. He’s been one of my favorite friends for a long time. I’m blown away by how one person can bring both comfort with light-hearted beauty in words and also shine a focus on, what is sometimes, hard to hear truth. If this is the first time you’re hearing of In-Q you’ll get to experience two of my favorite poems. I’ve been friends with In-Q over a decade and this chat was the opportunity to ask questions I’ve always wondered but never dug in on. It’s easy to stay surface when catching up with friends asking “What’s new?” or “How have you been”? At The Idea Fountain friends gather at my house for a fireside chat. I always welcome guests who have made me a better person and try to learn as much as I can from their greatness. Enjoy this special talk with In-Q and I highly recommend listening to every single poem, seeing him live, and soaking up all of his words on the regular.
Confidence in Creativity
Being vulnerable is HARD. I have so much compassion for every artist that I’ve ever sat in a room with as they played me their new music…. “It’s not mixed!!!” is usually what everyone says before hitting play. It’s not the same exactly…. but I think it takes the same amount of courage to raise your hand and throw out an idea in a corporate environment or to innovate in brainstorming meetings.
At the recent Power Shift conference I curated a conversation about having “Confidence in Creativity” with two artist friends Andrew Dost & Xzibit. We discussed authenticity, social media, and imposter syndrome and then were joined by Aloe Blacc & Problem to dig even deeper.
From having #1 songs to touring the world to winning The Best New Artist Grammy they offered up many gems. Then I had to be vulnerable. About an hour before we taped this conversation I learned a good friend of mine had died. At the conference (on stage) I told people what I was going through and honored my friend. It was painful and I wondered if I should edit it out of the taping before releasing this episode of The Idea Fountain. I decided to keep the conversation in it’s entirety and share my story. Mental health is an important conversation and me pretending something horrible didn’t happen, or just posting pictures of me with artists, isn’t going to help someone. I hope this talk does. Whether you consider yourself a Blk Shp trying to find your inner artist… or you’re an artist trying to find confidence in creativity there is strength in community. I know I’m appreciative for all of you. Thanks for checking out the new episode!
Dr. Deepika Chopra discusses the science of optimism. This was one of my favorite episodes I’ve ever done!! It’s the first Idea Fountain episode we’ve taped in public with an audience at The Bungalow in Santa Monica. Last year I attended an event where Deepika spoke. I was immediately inspired and unexpectedly gained a new friend. I’ve always considered myself an optimist but was blown away when I learned I didn’t quite have the definition of an optimist right. In this episode discover how you can strengthen your optimism muscle, prioritize your accomplishments on a gratitude list, and find the right balance between being optimistic and being real. We talk about science, the brain, social media, and happiness. Enjoy a great conversation with about 100 friends - so many more than would ever fit in my living room!
How often do we search for a solution or remedy to fix our bodies rather than just letting them heal? Many say all the answers are in nature. If it could only be so simple! On this episode of the Idea Fountain you’re invited to open up your mind to the possibility it is that simple. Martha Soffer owns and runs Surya Spa in the Pacific Palisades which is an Ayurvedic Clinic. They focus on helping you balance your body, balance your life, and experience transformation by naturally returning to health. I was lucky enough to get introduced to Martha by my great friend Liz Hernandez. At Surya I’ve discovered better health, a place to recharge, new mentors, and new ideas. People tell me I look like I’m glowing. I’ve lost 30 lbs since last October with her nutrition guidance. Whether you can visit Surya or not here’s an opportunity to relax with friends, have a great conversation, about self care and “Ayurveda” also known as the science and wisdom of life.
Kicking off Season 2 of The Idea Fountain!! In Season 1 of the Idea Fountain every episode I interviewed someone who has changed my life. In Season 2 we are going to speak to people from all walks of life…. about their instincts and intuition. First up is Beth Comstock who recently released her book Imagine It Forward. Beth is a director at Nike, trustee of The National Geographic Society, former Vice Chair of Innovation of GE & also was President of Integrated Media at NBC Universal where she was involved in the early development of hulu. We got together a great room of inspiring people and had a fireside chat which ended up being one of my favorite conversations to date. Here’s to a new year, new ideas, new season, and new friends!
Today - We are hanging with Peter Sims of Parliament and Blk Shp. The episode is titled Learn but.... we also chat a lot about openness.
At the end of last year someone told me “You should meet Peter - you two would have a lot in common”.
I was open. Without thinking twice we jumped on the phone. Not only did I instantly get a new lifelong friend but.... someone who would introduce me to about 50 new friends this year.
He also ultimately help me knock something off my bucket list that I’ve been procrastinating for 20 years!
We’ll kick it off in Los Angeles, with a deep bench of great friends at my house, and inspiring conversation for another episode of The Idea Fountain. Thanks for listening & also telling a friend. Follow @TheIdeaFountain on Instagram or www.theideafountain.co
First, I am so damn lucky to be surrounded by so many brilliant people from all walks of life. I hope you really enjoy this episode. The Idea Fountain has been behind schedule. In July I went to Seattle and recorded a very special episode with some of my biggest influences from growing up in the music scene. It was an inspiring conversation and then horrible news broke and that episode will most likely never come out. Over the summer, again and again, I felt like I kept reliving the same challenge. “What do we do NOW?” In 2018, with cancel culture, it can be complicated navigating relationships. Whether it was separating art and morality, or how someone so genius could do something so horrible, I was feeling a lot of confusion. David Kim is a friend, scholar, Blk Shp, and philosopher whom I often turn to on heavy topics. I have never said “I don’t know….” so many times in a conversation as I did in this episode. I feel when there is so much hurt, heaviness, and noise it’s important to get together and sort through things with good friends. For this taping we stepped away from social media, piled into my living room, and did a deep dive on everything from Kanye, to Supreme Court nominations, #MeToo, redemption, and how to protect yourself from toxicity with out throwing away people. @davidkyumankim
Sister Pat is a GANGSTA nun. I’ve said that for years because she’s lived a couragous and fascinating life from being in Mozambique during their civil war, she was Mother Superior and worked in Rome, then landed in South Central in the 90s as A Place Called Home was beginning. She is the reason I started The Idea Fountain. I’ve known her about 15 years, via Debrah Constance at A Place Called Home, but never was able to dig in on her full story because she’s so humble. For every question I would ask her over breakfast she would ask me 4 more about my life. I wanted to do a formal interview with her but thought if I did it, for a blog, it would be a lot of work and get lost.
There’s a lot happening in the news again with The Church. It’s heartbreaking to hear any stories of abuse. I’ll give you a little context - I’ve never felt home at church. I went to Catholic High School but am not Catholic. I believe in higher powers. I love manifesting things for myself and others. I know energy is real. Still, I’ve never fully formed my opinion about how God and prayer fits in my life until I talked to Sister Pat. I had a huge breakthrough around how I already connect with God, or the Universe, every single day while taping this episode.
This isn’t an episode about religion. There’s no part of the episode that preaches. It’s an episode about one of the most powerful people I know and the everyday philosophies that created the magic around who she is. I always find talking to her healing. Listening to it feels like a bit of a meditation. This episode was taped at her house. With that - I’m excited for you to meet Sister Pat.
Hope lives in here, in this episode. For me, when I recorded The Idea Fountain Episode 7: Justice with Mike de la Rocha, I didn’t have much hope. Years ago I had visited Sylmar’s Juvenile Detention Center with Mike and it made me feel sick. I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere, the enormity of challenges, or how it was even possible to have a building the size of a high school filled with juveniles with life sentences. When nationally babies were being taken from their parents at the boarder I didn’t have much confidence that a tweet, phone call, or showing up at a march would change that. I wanted to do something I just didn’t know WHAT. Mike de la Rocha is an extremely talented artist and also an organizer who works at Revolve Impact. He joined us, along with Tia Oso from Revolve Impact, and walked through how to make a difference locally via education, using your voice, and building community. It gave me a whole new level of much needed hope. My wish is it does the same for you. Come into my living room for a fireside chat with friends and lets figure out how to make a difference. Now is the time! #socialjustice #immigration #juveniledetention #prison #Humanize #Policy #Politics #JohnForte #alexandriaocasiocortez #Organizing #Community #Local #problemsolving #Hope #LockedUp #UseYourVoice #knowyourrepresentatives #malidomasome #Energy
I want to be Debrah Constance when I grow up!
If anyone knows me - you have surely heard about A Place Called Home or Youth Mentoring. In South Central LA there is tremendous work being done at an organization that was founded 25 years ago by Debrah Constance. Since then they’ve served over 20,000 youth!
“I don’t want your money I want your time” were the words that inspired Debrah Constance to get involved working with the kids. I don’t think enough people realize how big of an impact they can have just by showing up.
Debrah’s story is the most unpredictable, unprecedented, unexpected story about how to make miracles happen. This legend has survived near deaths experiences, celebrated Mother’s Day brunching with Tupac, and created a ripple effect of change felt around the globe. I feel like when the news of the world gets frustrating I find solace by making a difference locally, and would love you to join me, by learning more about Debrah Constance and A Place Called Home.
Alex Banayan And The Third Door
This one is for the college dropouts.
This one is for the Black Sheep.
This one is for the entrepreneurs and the dreamers.
It’s for anyone who just needs to TRUST themselves and take a risk.
Alex Banayan is a great friend & has his first book, The Third Door, dropping June 5th.
He came over for a fireside chat and his first ever, official, book signing at my house!
We talked about his journey to interview some of the biggest thought leaders in the world about the secrets to their success. Along the way he had the adventure of a lifetime and
got priceless advice from Bill Gates, Quincy Jones, Lady Gaga, and Maya Angelou…. whose words of wisdom ultimately changed MY LIFE.
Come into my living room, celebrate a huge life moment from with one of my favorite friends, take away magic from his stories, and learn what’s behind The Third Door!
Andrea Marcum definitely changed my life - in more ways than one.
On this episode of The Idea Fountain: Life Changing conversations we catch up on her book Close to Om.
I didn’t do yoga before I moved to LA. For a long time I thought yoga was just a trendy LA thing. I didn’t realize it was the only workout that, when finished, that gave me MORE energy than before I started.
This isn’t an episode on Yoga.
It’s not an episode on meditation or OMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMs that people often chant at the beginning or end of class. It’s about a person who, through her craft and coaching, has made me digest life at a different speed.
Andrea’s yoga classes are known as some of the toughest in town….. In her class - I learned to allow myself to take breaks so I wouldn’t burn out or give up. I carried that lesson with me over to work and my career.
Even this year, Andrea led me to a huge break through!!!! When her book came out - There’s a picture of me doing yoga in it - does that make me a yoga model?!! Felicia at LA YOGA magazine asked me to write a review of her book. It was my first ever book review? Does that make me a writer? AND THEN as a contributor, in the magazine, I was featured with tips on healthy life hacks….. Does that make me a health EXPERT?!
I mean - I’m sure I’ve taken 1000 yoga classes. I’ve built and orchestrated summers of community yoga on the beach radio promotions! I’ve traveled the world doing yoga. However, I still can’t do a handstand and don’t wear LuLu Lemon.
Who’s keeping the scorecard? At what point do I win?
I just AM…. I AM….. Now.
This episode is dedicated to all the people in my life that I love but don’t see enough and those I mostly stay connected to via social media. That’s where my relationship with Dina was a year ago. Dina LaPolt is not only someone who has changed my life but listening to this episode and her story could SAVE your life. Last year Dina went from having neck pain, to being in septic shock, and asked if she wanted a Rabbi as she went into surgery, all within two very quick weeks. This is a story of strength. It has powerful information on how to advocate for yourself around doctors and hospitals. It’s a life lesson on how much you help yourself when you’re helping others. Dina’s health care led to inspiring our phenomenal Friday Morning Hike Club. She will make you laugh, cry, and want to call your best friend. The interview is worth listening to beginning to end. Share the information with people you love. With gratitude - The Idea Fountain: Life Changing Conversations, Episode 3: Life, with Dina LaPolt.
Last summer I fell in love. The days I spent at Sarara walking amongst giraffes, meditating with elephants, and bonding with the local tribes in Northen Kenya will be with me for the rest of my life. I truly think, even on a cellular level, that time in nature changed me. It changed how I feel about animals. It changed the way I view tradition and culture. It changed how I communicate with people. Behind everything at Sarara there are two brothers, Jeremy and Joffy Bastard. Some people say they are like “real life” Indiana Jones. Their family has worked alongside the local tribes to both protect and revitalize the land. When I returned home from my trip I brought back with me 1000 stories. The trip was so transformative at times it was hard for me to articulate how magical it was. Last summer, after our trip, Joffy was in LA & reached out to us about getting dinner. I told him we would love to take him to dinner…. OR he could come to my house for dinner and share stories with a bunch of my friends. Thankfully he did! I feel like this serves as an audio postcard from the most amazing place I’ve ever been that…. I hope you all get to visit.
“We have what we need, if we use what we have.” - Dr. Edgar Cahn.
I first read about Time Banking, an alternate currency based on reciprocity, ten years ago in Time Magazine. I joined the Echo Park Time Bank and not only met my neighbors but had doors opened and tried many new things from acupuncture to drum lessons, vegan cooking and even square dancing. In return I helped with social media, philanthropy, and music biz advice in the Time Bank. Inspired - I once attended a conference to hear Dr. Edgar Cahn speak and recently got the magical opportunity to do a fireside chat with him in my living room. Ying is taking the Time Banking concept to a new level and I got to dig deeper with one of my modern day heroes.